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Sensory Friendly Concert

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Music is for everyone, but sometimes all the different noises, the chairs that open and close/open and close, the dress up clothing that is scratchy and feels different… it can be too much for children who have sensory sensitivity. Sensory processing issues are common in children with Autism and other developmental disorders. April is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month and to celebrate, there will be a special concert tailored to children with sensory issues.  What a wonderful opportunity for the whole family to enjoy a live music experience.

Sigma Alpha Iota (a women’s music fraternity) and Kansas City Metro Music Therapists are joining together to provide a high-quality music program for folks that might not be able to enjoy typical concert venues, including those on the autism spectrum. The Sensory Friendly Concert movement embraces neuro-diversity in that we welcome any non-harmful responses to music (hand-flapping allowed!) and provide accommodations for those who have varying sensory needs.

Cards for Clara

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A week ago, we shared the story of the Peters family.  Clara, who is in kindergarten, was diagnosed with a bone marrow disease and is in the process of treatment at Children’s Mercy Hospital.  This treatment includes chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant (from one of her sisters).  Due to her compromised immune system, Clara will remain in the hospital for quite awhile.

You can watch the story that aired on NBC here: http://www.kshb.com/dpp/news/health/5-year-old-to-receive-life-saving-cure-from-sister-after-being-diagnosed-with-bone-marrow-disorder.  It won’t take very long for you to realize what an amazing family they are!  To receive frequent updates, you can “like” Clara’s Crew on Facebook.

This Friday is Clara’s birthday.  We want to encourage all of our InJoy families to send a card (have your child help make a card or choose a special card together).  If you need some design inspiration, Clara loves rainbows.  We know she will be thrilled to know people are thinking of her.

In the coming days and weeks, consider sending another card. Children always enjoy getting mail and when they are in the hospital, it’s extra special.  You can mail cards directly to Children’s Mercy Hospital.

Clara Peters
2401 Gillham Road
4 Henson Room 23
KC, MO 64108

Thanks for helping out a member of our InJoy Music community!

photo credit: <a href=”http://www.flickr.com/photos/ndm007/263855278/”>nathan makan</a> via <a href=”http://photopin.com”>photopin</a> <a href=”http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/2.0/”>cc</a>